Wednesday, September 1, 2010

introduction rough draft part 3

PART 3

The purpose of our lab is to determine what different amounts of water does to the germination of a yellow dent corn seed (Zea mays indenta). Through the observation of 5 separate germination tests we will be able to tell what amount of water is optimum for proper germination of the seed. There will be a total of 4 variables in our experiments, 3 of which will remain constant throughout: soil, light, and temperature. Each day the seeds will be watered with the appropriate amount in order to tell us which daily amount is best for fastest germination. All the corn seeds used will be used from a commercial seed packet. If a yellow dent corn seed is exposed to 2 tablespoons of water per day, then it will germinate at a faster rate than any other amount of water.

4 comments:

  1. Part 1
    The reason for our study of germination in a yellow dent corn seed is to best find the conditions suited for this particular seed. Germination is the process in which a plant emerges from a seed and begins growth; it can be implied as anything expanding into a greater being from a smaller existence. A small sprout will emerge from the bottom of the seed; this is the main root of the seed and is called the radicle. In the second stage of growth the main sprout will emerges from the top of the plant. This sprout is called the hypocotyl and is the first sign of growth. The hypocotyl emerges as a looped green stem that bends toward the ground. As the seed goes through the third stage of growth the stem will straightens up. The two cotyledons break apart and turn toward the sun to reveal the first two plant leaves. In the fourth stage of germination, the two cotyledons fall off and additional leaves appear on the bean plant. We will test many corn seeds to see what environmental conditions best match our seeds for full potential of cell growth. We must choose of variables carefully for full success in seed germination.


    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germination
    http://www.ehow.com/how_6226920_identify-stages-bean-seed-germination.html

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  2. Previous studies have proven that the yellow dent thrives best in a hot climate. Particularly a place with much moisture and humidity. However it also adapts easily to wind change, amounts of sunlight, and many different soils. May and June have proven to be the best and most successful time to plant the yellow dent for the best possible germination. Full sunlight is recommended. Ideal temperature for soil would be around 65 degrees, however the yellow dent is known for its adaptability. It germinates best with highly fertilized soil with high levels of nitrogen. The seed grows best if planted one inch deep in soil. The yellow dent is drought tolerant and has proven itself against torrential rain fall.

    http://cropsusa.com/REIDS.aspx
    http://www.jstor.org/pss/4258102

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  3. make sure in your typed report the scientific name is italicized. As I read through the posts, I think Elinah's should go first, followed by Kinsey, ending with Dalton's. Great info, well done!

    We will tweak this a bit more, but you are 95% there.

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